
THE 

GIC FLUTE 



A PLAY 

for Camp Fire Girls 

BY 

ALICE D. VANDERLAAN 




PUBLISHED BY 

THE GAMP FIRE OUTFITTING CO. 

NEW YORK CITY 



THE 

MAGIC FLUTE 

A PLAY 

forZCamp Fire Girls 

BY 

ALICE D. VANDERLAAN 




PUBLISHED BY 

THE CAMP FIRE OUTFITTING CO. 

NEW YORK CITY 



<>' 



COPYRIGHT 1920 
BY THE CAMP FIRE OUTFITTING CO. 



©Ci.0 54313 



THE MAGIC FLUTE 

Musical Drama, Central figures, Lise and Luc, whom Ma- 
dam Sancho, mother of Lise, tries to separate because of the 
poverty of Luc. As a visitor to the inn and in search of a 
pretty young wife, the elderly Marquis is captivated by Lise 
and is betrothed to her. Luc is in despair, but an old beggar 
who is turned away from the inn, hears his tale and in 
return for a piece of money given him by Luc presents him 
with a magic flute. All who hear it played must dance. 
Villagers declare Luc bewitched them. Bring him before 
judge. Luc plays again. All, including Judge, dance again, 
Luc finally overpowered — flute broken. About to be sen- 
tenced, when Oberon, king of Fairies, appears. States he 
was in garb of beggar turned from inn. Commands Luc and 
Lise be reunited. More dancing. Play has many folk and 
fancy dances and is a simple matter to stage, as scenery is 
but fronts of inn and Judge's home, inn yard and picket 
fence. 

Characters can be reduced or increased in number, but 
is written for 15 people, and will take about one hour and 
a half to produce. 

15 CHARACTERS 

THE MAGIC FLUTE* 

By Alice D. Vanderlaan 

CHARACTERS : 

MADAME SANCHO, wife of a Savoy Innkeeper 

LISE 

MARJON 

Daughters of the Innkeeper 
LUC — Lise's suitor 

FIDDLE-DE-DEE— Marquis de la Folie 
JUDGE 

OBERON— King of the Fairies 
FOOTMAN 
GENDARME 
ANGELIQUE 
CORALIE 
SUZANNE 
RENE 
ADOLF 

Peasants 
MICHEL 

* Plays about one hour and a quarter. In the original 
production four peasants only appeared. Though written for 
six, the Play is easily adapted to any number. 



THE MAGIC FLUTE 

A One-Act Musical Drama, Founded on the Plot of One of 
Anna Pavlowa's Dances 
SCENE — A Savoy village, in the time of Louis the fif- 
teenth. The Inn and Judge's house adjacent, facing on the 
village green. Enter Inkeeper's wife, Mme. Sancho, leading 
Marjon, her little daughter by the hand. Seats child on 
stool, gives it the bowl and spoon which she carried in her 
hand, pats her on head, goes over to bench, and begins spin- 
ning. Child eats contentedly. Presently Mme. Sancho stops 
spinning and soliloquizing about her daughter Lise's future. 
MME. SANCHO— 

"Ah, well a day! It seems no longer gone 
Then yester morn 

Since Lise was a little sprout like thee, Marjon, 
Yet look and see 

What a fine cabbage she has grown to be !" 
(Shakes head slowly toward audience) 

"Tho' I would her heart were sounder 
And her head securer on — " 
(Slaps knee wrathfully) 

"That Luc, that stupid clout 
Love making can't afford 
I'll teach him my little cabbage 
Shall not grace his humble board !" 
(Spins awhile with energy in silence, then resumes) 
"Empty pocket cannot win 
The daughter of a Savoy Inn !" 
(Spins while speaking) 

"For all she casts her eyes on him 
I'll never grant her foolish whim — " 
(Stops spinning, speaks half toward audience) 
"Have I then brought her up, forsooth 
A peasant's wife to be? 
Her feet and hands are small enough 
To suit a grand Marquis !" 
(Smile of greedy pride and craftiness as she adds) 
"Oh, a platter of gold is none too fine 
To serve my cabbage on 

Not for naught have I lived on the King's Highway 
These many years agone !" 
(Spins — stops suddenly) 

"I dreamed last night of magpie's white 
A lucky omen they say. 
And did I not mind the cat sneeze thrice? 
We will see good fortune the day!" 
(Resumes spinning, then rises and goes in house, chirping 
a second to the bird as she goes. Returns directly, 






goes more toward center of stage, stands with hands 
under apron. ) 
"Lise with the village folk 
To the Festival has gone, 
This is good St. Vitus day 
The day that she was born — " 
(Strains neck about, half looking.) 
" 'Tis time she was returning, 
Go, Marjon, look and see." 
(Waves child toward road. Looks puzzled.) 
"She left before the dew was off 
And now, 'tis after three." 
(Nods head grimly toward audience.) 
"I'll have you know, I let her go 
'Though not without a sigh — 
Lest the good saint frown upon my hopes 
Albeit — the more fool I !" 
(This is said as she goes back to resume spinning, shaking 
her head as she goes.) 
Marjon returns from back of scene, slowly, wagging her 
head "no." 
MME. SANCHO— 

"What? Not in sight? 
I trow she well needs looking after!" 
(To audience) 

"Tomorrow cherry picking doth begin 
And we shall have an end of foolishness and laughter." 
(Spins a moment more — then rises, takes bowl and spoon 
and is half in the doorway when sounds of scuffling and 
commotion down the road, make her stop and listen. 
Another instant and Lise runs on stage, Luc after, who 
catches and kisses her — extreme left of stage. Mme. 
Sancho wheels abruptly, puts bowl and spoon violently 
down on table as she passes it, and swoops down on 
both in a rage.) 
MME. SANOHO— 

"Pretty capers this ! 'Tis what I guessed — 
I'll have thee trounced, thou simpleton 
For impudence and jest!" 
(Leans forward, both hands on hips, while Luc and Lise, 
both startled, have separated and stand heads down 
abashed.) 
"Thinkest thou I'd ever own 
Such son-in-law as thou? 
With neither name, nor fortune 
Nor lands, nor house, nor cow?" 
(Out with her fist.) 

"A pest on such a straw thatched clout, 
Go, turn thy worthless self and empty pockets — out!" 
Turning to Lise) 



"And thou — my pretty miss! 
How many times a day, I pray 
Must I rate thee for doings such as this?" 
(Luc has sidled off till near the arbor of exit and entrance 
where he remains sullen and defiant, watching Lise out 
of the corner of his eye. Inkeeper's wife takes Lise by 
the ear pouting and downcast to the house and pushes 
her down on the bench where she wipes her eyes on 
her apron. Mother picks up bowl and spoon again, 
and wrathfully enters house with a parting look at Lise. 
Mar j on jumps down off stool and goes to comfort her 
sister.) (Sounds of chorus singing in distance — pres- 
ently appear troup of peasants : enter stage gayly. ) 
FIRST PEASANT— 

"Ho, Luc ! She led thee a merry chase, in troth — 
What's come amiss?" 
(Lass with first peasant has a long flower stem which she 
tickles his face with. All look from Luc to Lise and 
laugh. ) 

"Thou hast not fallen out with Lise? 
Hast slapped thee for thy kiss?" 
(Turns to second peasant.) 

"Come, let's cool our thirst. Mar j on — " 
Beckons Marjon, who runs to him.) 

"Tell they good Mother pray make haste 
And bring refreshments on." 
(Shoo's child toward house, then claps second peasant on 
shoulder and both wheel off toward table, one leaning 
against grape trellis, the other taking stool up to 
table and sitting down. Other lads follow. Peasant 
lasses group together center stage excitedly.) 
FIRST LASS— 

"Oh, but I'm sure of it ! 
I saw the coronet on the door!" 
SECOND LASS— 

"But didst thou see, Coralie — 
His fine footman just before?" 
(Strokes apron sentimentally.) 
THIRD LASS— 

"And oh— as we passed by 

He stuck his old head out 

And gazed at us — oh, la, la, la — 

So droll, I had to shout! 

Adof— " 

(Points teasingly at peasant lad who looks as he hears 

name mentioned and turns his back, in a huff.) 

" — he did not think so 

Such black looks he cast about !" 



I 



(All break out into a good laugh. (Inkeeper's wife sets 
out mugs and pitcher, and peasant lassies run and 
gather about table. Third lass pantomimes making up 
with her swain. Another lad pours contents of pitcher 
and puts it to the lips of his lass. Opportunity here 
for side play.) 
MME. SANCHO— 

"I bid you dance and make merry 
Young folk before you go, 
The day is yet still young 
As all of you must know." 
(Music in distance. Peasants gayly dance Folk Dance. 
Lise after a moment unable to keep her feet still, be- 
gins to dance with little Marjon, Mme. Sancho having 
gone into the Inn. Then, watching her chance, Lise 
whispers in Marjon's ear to bid Luc dance with her — 
Luc having gone over by far end of fence, and leans 
there, morosely. Luc gets her message, Marjon runs 
off stage, and Luc and Lisle take center of stage, join- 
ing the dance with mischievous glee. At the end of 
second dance, Mme. Sancho appears, sees them, de- 
sends upon them, Luc taking to his heels. Just as she 
is about to break up the dance by jerking Lise toward 
the Inn, Marjon reappears on stage, crying out — ) 
MARJON— 

"A coach, a coach, Maman Sancho!" 
LASSIES' CHORUS— 

"Did not we say say? (All look at each other.) 
At the ford below the hill 
We just passed it, standing still, 
Belonging to some fine grandee — " 
(Look at Innkeeper's wife, then to each other.) 

"Who can it be? Let's see!" 
(All peasant lasses run and peer over fence. Lads shrug 
shoulders, and go over to shrubbery at left of entrance, 
laughing. Presently enter Marquis' footman, carrying 
velvet cushion on which reposes a large gold ring box. 
Blows horn, steps grandly to front of stage.) 
HERALD— 

"I herald the approach of Fiddle-de-dee, 
Marquis de la Folie, 
Who, be he young or be he old — 
What matters so he has the gold? 
He's seeking for a pretty wife 
To finish out the last of life. 
He's been all up and down the land — 
He's here to offer up his heart and hand." 
MME. SANCHO (aside) 
"And purse, I trust." 

7 



(Turns to Lise.) 

"Run, run, daughter, dear, 
Set thy cap, and smooth thy hair, 
Here comes, at last, a proper cavalier!" 
(Lise pouts but goes. Other maidens all in a twitter fall 
in line. Swains look cross — go over to bushes left of 
entrance, and mutter among themselves.) 
(Enter Marquis, looks about.) 
MARQUIS— 

"One — two — three — no more?" 
(Makes deep bow.) 

"Charming maidens, I adore !" 
(Tips up chin of first peasant lass.) 
"So shy? Tut, tut, now why?" 
MME. SANCHO (in the Marquis' ear) — 

"My Lord, mayhap with downcast lashes, so 
She hopes her cross-eyed frightfulness won't show!" 
(Peasant lass looks suddenly up making the Marquis drop 
his hat and cane with a shiver, gives a wrathful toss 
of her head at Mme. Sancho, and stalks off stage, stop- 
ping to drag her somewhat reluctant and bewildered 
swain after her.) 
(Mme. Sancho picks up hat and cane of Marquis and makes 
courts ey. Marquis takes lorgnette up, and inspects next 
lass. ) 
MARQUIS— 

"Neither too tall nor too small, 
And quite bewitching!" 
MME. SANCHO (again over his shoulder slyly) — 
"Yea, in troth, good sir, 
Till thou rub the film from thy lens 
And see the freckles on her nose 
As large as speckled hens !" 
(Marquis jumps back in horror, drops lorgnette. Second 
peasant lass repeats action of first lass, and exits.) 
(Marquis one hand on knee gazes up, shading eyes, in- 
spects third lass.) 
MARQUIS— 

"Now, surely I know that thou art far too tall — 
Yet would I gladly mount a ladder when you smile 
To see your dimples going out and in, the while." 
(Chuckles, draws out snuff case and strolls off— three paces. 
Third lass stands irresolute, a moment, then, catching 
the triumphant smile of Mme. Sancho, defiantly follows 
the example of the others. Marquis turns, comes back. ) 
MARQUIS— 

"And boasts the village of no fairer maid?" 
(Mme. Sancho looking anxiously at Inn door, just as it 
opens. Lise appears. Mme Sancho beckons her forward 

8 






j 



Impatiently.) 
"One moment, sir, and you will see 
The pride of all Savoy, 
None other than my daughter Lise — 
My little 'choux,' — my joy." 
(Bringing her forward to center of stage. As Lise neither 
courtseys nor looks up, she claps her on the head 
angrily to make her courtsey. Marquis falls immedi- 
ately in love. The footman having taken up his posi- 
tion on the right of entrance by the arbor, Marquis 
steps up to him and says aside, audibly) 
"In this simple village flower 
My chosen bride I see,"" 
(Taps footman to take notice, then comes forward, makes 
deep bow to Lise.) 
"Lo! All my search hath been to find 
A charming maid like thee! 
Fortune at length hath led me 
To thy pretty little feet, 
With rapture I'm transported 
To find anything so sweet! 
When once I've decked thy neck so fair 
And powdered thy small nose — " 
(Aside in transport.) 

"The King himself shall envy me 
My Savoy cabbage — " 
(Inclines toward Lise) 
" — rose ! 

Satins and velvets thou shalt wear 
While all the village people stare. 
And own, what's more, a coach and four, 
With laqueys to turn the handle of the door !" 
(Lise unresponsive twists corner of apron. Madam San- 
cho's eyes roll up with joy — clasps her hands. Luc 
has come back and listens over fence.) 
MARQUIS (haughtily) — 

"Good dame, the hand of thy daughter, fair 
Of course thou'lt give to me? 
I am Fiddle de — dee, Marquis de la Folie 
Of Bordeaux and of Paris, 
In the flower of my age 
As thou very well can'st see." 
(Aside) 

"Tho' why thy daughter does not faint 
At her good fortune — is a mystery!" 
(To Lise) 

"Sweet Lise, art struck dumb perchance instead?" 
(Aside with chuckles) 

"Aye — Thou should'st be !" 

s 



MME. SANCHO (hurriedly protesting) — 
"Your Highness, most noble Marquis, 
I would not have thee think 
That from thy handsome offer 
My daughter's heart doth shrink." 
(Makes faces at Lise who makes them back in return.) 
"Bashfulness alone doth make her pout — 
Conclude the matter settled, sir." 
(Hands spread down — then turns palms up.) 

"She loves thee without doubt!" 
(Courtseys.) 

"Now by thy leave, kind sir, 
To the kitchen I'll repair, 
In honor of this happy day, 
Refreshments to prepare." 
(Back toward Inn with another courtsey and parting look 
at Lise, shaking a warning finger at her as she gazes 
after her mother. Marquis takes a turn to left of stage, 
coming back, motions grandly to footman to step for- 
ward. Opens ring box with much ostentation, watch- 
ing effect on Lise. Takes ring out. Throws hat on 
cushion, and cane gives to footman, who steps back to 
position by arbor. Marquis sinks on one knee, makes 
face of pain at gout. Luc steals up nearer. Lise sees 
him.) 
"On bended knee, I thee adore, 
Most lovely creature, what could heart wish more? 
I pray thee let me place upon thy hand, this sign 
That will forever make thee mine! 
Thus will end indeed my search in bliss 
When once I seal this ring upon thy finger — 
With a kiss !" 
(As the Marquis, who can't half see, takes Lise's hand, Luc 
who has stolen up behind her, gives him his in place 
of hers. The Marquis kisses it fervently and puts ring 
on. Meanwhile Luc snatches a kiss from Lise's lips.) 
(Marquis attempts to rise, being unable, beckons foot- 
man to approach and render assistance. Luc makes his 
escape. Marquis takes hat from cushion. Footman backs 
off.) 

MARQUIS— 

"Now, ere thy mother calls us in 
To make the time seem short; 
Come, I will show thee how to dance 
When we go up to Court!" 
(Sentimentally pulls one of Lise's curls, then aside to audi- 
ence. ) 
"When I my many graces I display 
Sweet Lise's heart will tumble into love — or ought!" 
10 



(Music. Dances minuet, first stepping bravely out, then 
becoming gouty. Lise shows merriment half concealed. 
Marquis then dances it through with Lise, who, for love 
of dancing, does it with good grace. Marquis waxes 
very sentimental, but gout makes matters difficult.) 
(At conclusion of dance.) 
LISE— 

"Nay, indeed, good sir, 
I like it not so well ; 
Tho' mayhap thy silly ways 
Offend me more, I cannot tell. 
Anyone can pass for spry 
In such a dance as that, 
Which is no dance at all 
I'll tell thy Lordship flat !" 
(Emphatic nods. Shakes curls.) 

"When village lads and lasses dance 
It makes the good blood in their cheeks appear — 
From thy looks I trow my lordship's blood 
Has not stirred this forty year ! 
If I should marry thee, 
As mother says I ought, 
I'll show thee very soon, sir, 
How I shall dance at Court !" 
(Tosses head, dances folk dance to a noisy tune. Marquis 
somewhat dashed, now greets this turn of things with 
a contemptuous air, at first scarcely noticing Lise's 
dancing, but very soon becoming captivated and finally 
follows after her attempting to imitate her. She turns 
and keeping time to the music approaches and slaps 
him first on one cheek and then the other, playfully. 
She then takes his hand and teaches him, and it is 
danced through a second time. If this is omitted, 
Marquis after being slapped loses his heart completely, 
and attempts to kiss Lise who dances out of reach ; just 
as Mme. Sancho makes her appearance in the Inn door- 
way, beaming smiles of approval.) 
MME. SANCHO— 

"Refreshment awaits thy pleasure, my Lord, 
And Lise shall wait upon thy slightest word." 
MARQUIS (rubs hands together in evident satisfaction) — 
"Come, that sounds good ! 

No joyous day should go uncrowned with food. 
Let us to the feast repair." 
(Bends low — offers arm to Lise) 
"For this day's happenings 
Have been rich and rare." 
(Lise takes Marquis' arm, who, head high and stepping 
grandly toward Inn, does not notice that Lise regardless 
11 



of him, is looking back, rebelliously protesting, by sign 
language, to her mother, who, in her turn, is gesticu- 
lating and demanding her submission, standing in cen- 
ter of stage, looking after the couple. As they enter 
Inn together, Madam Sancho's face becomes filled with 
pride and elation. She turns, observes the footman 
asleep, standing against arbor. Goes over, knocks his 
arm rudely. He stirs. She gives him another shove 
which wakens him. Then she pantomimes him to fall 
behind her, while, with a grand air, imitative of the 
Marquis, she proceeds to the Inn. Footman, like a 
machine wound up again, follows. All enter Inn. Pres- 
ently Luc appears, dejectedly, and leans against corner 
of the Judge's house. Soliloquizes thus.) 

LUC— 

"Alack the day! How fairly it began 
Yet ending thus ! 

Tho' Lise's heart I know is mine, 
Greed of gold, and cunning wiles 
Accomplish all this fuss." 
(Looks at ring, throws head back and laughs loud and 
heartily. ) 
"No better proof could I have, forsooth 
Of Lise's love for me — 
Yet won 'ere this, I wis, is she 
By promises of jewels and finery." 
( Sighs heavily — droops head. ) 

"So all my hopes have come amiss 
Across this rich old duffer, 
For all I ha\e, in troth, is this — " 
(Searches in pocket — brings out a coin — tosses it up rue- 
fully.) 

"Beside my faithful heart to offer." 
(Enter old hermit — goes to door of Inn and knocks with 
cane, waits, then peers in window, and knocks again. 
Madam Sancho appears, sticks head out of door, impa- 
tiently.) 

HERMIT— 

"I am footsore and lame — 
I beg of thee a night's lodging 
And a morsel of food, good dame." 
MME. SANCHO— 

"Begone! Let Heaven hear thee; I will not. 
A pest on thee for a bothersome old — what? 
Hermit, or beggar — thou'st said enough, 
So, meddlesome sir, betake thyself off!" 
HERMIT— 

"At least a drop of water 
To quench my parched thirst — " 
12 



MME. SANCHO— 

"Begone, I say !" 
(Then changing tone to one of craft and greed.) 
"Unless perchance 
Thou can't show a coin first?" 
(Briskly) 

"Without it, I'll not have thee on my hands this night." 
HERMIT— 

"Alas, I have nothing — " 
MME. SANCHO (seizing broom by door) — 

"Then get thee out of sight!" (Door slams.) 
(Luc in compassion slaps his pocket dismally, goes to the 

old man, gives him out of his purse his last coin.) 
LUC— 

"Here, venerable sir, take this— 
'Twill get thee food and bed, 
At the cottage below the hill 
I trow thou could'st lay thine head." 
(Hermit thanks him, starts to go, hesitates and turns back.) 
HERMIT— 

"For one so young thy look is sad — 
Tell me 'ere I go, what ails thee, Lad?" 
LUC— 

" 'Tis my ill fortune, dismal to relate — 
To be cast off, like thee, from yonder Inn, 
Yet not like thee, desiring food, 
But what is bolder still — 
The daughter's hand to win. 
Like thee 'tis gold I lack. 
This very day her mother has, 
As she has thee, bid me, 'Begone !' " 
(Heavy sigh.) 

"Alas! My Lise is bestowed * 

Upon a Marquis, rich and old, 
'Tho she loves me, and I love her, 
Our love is set at naught for lack of gold !" 
(Looks out toward audience forgetful of everything but his 
emotion, but turns presently to find himself alone. His 
astonished eyes fall on a flute on the ground, on which 
is written "Play on this and everyone will be forced to 
dance. It will bring you luck.") 
LUC— 

"Now, by the fairies do I dream, 
Or what doth this portend? 
Right harmless did the stranger seem, 
So I'll not question who he was — 
Or whence he came, 
But take the luck the fairies send." 
13 



(Examines flute. Reads inscription aloud, laughing loudly 
after the first, and tapping head with flute after the 
last clause, humorously. Then catching up stool, he 
places himself upon it and commences to play, near 
Inn door. Music, imitative of flute, played behind scenes, 
Luc appearing to play. Lise appears suddenly in door- 
way.) 
LISE— 

"Luc, whatever art thou up to? 
Oh,-^what can the matter be? 
Oh, Luc — Oh, Luc — what is it? 
Is't me — or is it thee? 

Put that thing down — or I'll marry thee — never! 

... .To make me do this isn't funny or clever !" 

(Luc who has followed her about delightedly, breaks into 

a hearty laugh, and embraces her.) 
LUC— 

"This flute, not I hath bewitched thee, 
So, come, do not be angry! 
A gift is this, kind fortune did bestow 
On me, thy Luc — a moment or so ago. 
Just read thee what it says 
And believe it to be true, 
Since thou thyself hath danced to it 
And seen what it can do." 
(Lise yields to curiosity, though distrustful, and reads the 
inscription over Luc's shoulder, as he follows the words 
with his finger. Gazing into his face with round eyes 
of wonder,) 
LUC— 

"Pray do not blame for this thy honest lover, 
Now let us see if it will bring us luck ; 
To prove it, we will try it on thy mother!" 
LISE— 

"Fie, indeed thou shalt not ! 
Shame on thee, for the thought. 
Wouldst see the whole town laugh at her, 
And in the end, be caught? 
Thy meddling with this evil flute 
Will bring thee, not good luck, but ill repute — 
And get thee in disgrace, to boot! 
Here — (snatches at it) give it me, 
Thou wild galoot " 
(Noise as Inn door opens, and mother looks out — both jump. 
Madam Sancho enraged at seeing them together goes 
back into the Inn to call assistance.) 

LUC— 

"Hist! now for it — give it back." 
(Lise puts it behind her.) 

14 



"If thou wilt not consent to it, 
My head she's like to crack! 
There is no time to lose — now choose 
Of fortunes worse? 

Woulclst have me throw my luck away? 
Nay — I will leave thee first!" 
(Stamps foot, walks off. Lise watches him over her shoul- 
der, till he reaches the arbor, then breaks into a run 
and catches him by the arm, repentant, handing him 
the flute, just as the Inn door opens and out rushes 
Madam Sancho, seizing the broom by the Inn door, as 
she descends upon them, followed by the Marquis un- 
sheathing sword and the Footman with the Marquis' 
stick. All charge upon Luc and Lise the former com- 
mencing to play, the latter taking refuge behind Luc 
on her knees, peeking around him to watch what hap- 
pens. Her frightened look changes suddenly to one 
of laughter, as their warlike charge is changed into 
prancing and hopping.) 
MADAM SANCHO (appearing) — 

"Now thou'lt catch what is thy due!" 
MARQUIS (behind her) — 
"Show me him, who?" 
FOOTMAN (following, with loud voice) — 

"Villain — shoo — shoo !" 
(All in Chorus, staring wildly at each other) — 
CHORUS— 

"Oh, oh, oh, bewitched are we ! 
Stop, arrest him ! 
Call the gendarme, 
This is sorcery !" 
M. SANCHO (After several whirls about, falls to right of 
stage) — 
"Help, oh, help — alack the day 
I am so turned about!" 
MARQUIS (tumbling to ground — left of stage, panting) — 
"Good Heaven, this is killing me — 
Ouch — ouch — my gout, my gout!" 
FOOTMAN (dancing woodenly, in a straight line across 
stage and back repeatedly, making wild stabs with 
stick) — 
"Could I but reach him with my stick 
I'd stop his evil music — pretty quick, 
Could I but reach him with my stick — 
I'd stop — I'd stop — I'd stop — 
I'd stop his evil music — pretty quick!" 
(With the tip of his stick he knocks flute successfully out 
of Luc's hand drops his stick and catches both of 
15 



Luc's arms behind his back, calling out — 
"Help, help, good citizens — " 
(Aside toward audience — as peasants appear — ) 

"Now Heaven assistance sends !" 
(In rushes Gendarme at the head of group of villagers. 
They look first over fence, en route, crying) 

" 'Tis Luc — I vow !" 
(Rush through arbor and surround him excitedly) — 

"What's happened now?" 
GENDARME (who takes charge of Luc, the Footman pick- 
ing up the Marquis' stick and coming to his assistance) — 
"I've got him, who, sir, has he killed? 
No one? What then, is he mad? 
(Stares about from one to another. Peasants open mouthed.) 

"He seems a very likely lad — " 
(Looks him up and down) 

"Who started all this row?" (angrily). 
MARQUIS (getting to his feet, points with stick at Luc in 
his wrath) — 
"My chosen wife this clout hath tried to steal 
When we were all within, partaking of cold veal. 
Now lock him up, he is possessed — 
He's cast a spell upon us." 
(Twinge of gout) 

"Pray give our legs a rest!" 
MADAM SANOHO (reaching for her broom and getting to 
her feet) — 
"From dancing so, my side has — oh, 
A frightful, awful stitch, 
With fairy runes and evil tunes 
He's tried us to bewitch !" 
CHORUS VILLAGERS— 

"Take him to the Judge!" 

(Lise, who on Luc's arrest had run toward house and 
stopped in a panic, near grape trellis — now rushes out 
and falls at feet of Gendarme, protesting with be- 
seeching hands. Luc puts his arm around her neck 
sadly. Gendarme glowers. Madame Sancho roughly 
drags Lise to her feet and still holding her by one 
wrist, joins the procession to the Judge's house. Peas- 
ants fall to rear, jostling each other. One picks up 
flute, holding it gingerly. Much curiosity displayed. 
Gendarme raps loudly on Judge's door, with stick. Judge 
appears in doorway after a second knock.) (All fall 
back as Judge appears, and make deep bow.) 

JUDGE— 

"Who disturbs the public peace 
At this unseemly hour? 
16 







For all this din and noise 
I'll jail you all — I vow — er — " 
GENDARME— 

"We ask thy worship's pardon 
For this untimely call, 
This lad (indicating him) hath made the inmates 

prance, 
And fain bewitched us all." 
(Villagers assent with heads wagging.) 
"By playing on a Magic Flute 
Of evil look, and ill repute." 
CHORUS— 

"Magic Art — Sorcery !" 
(Villagers take a step forward wave arms.) 
JUDGE (testily) : 

"Hm — ha, I see, good people, 
Common sense and sober reason toddles, 
The wind a-whistling thou hast heard 
Within thy empty noddles! 

This is a likely tale your wild imaginations weave, 
What instrument indeed, wouldst have me idly believe 
Could set good sober folk 
A-hopping all about? 
Unless their wits were addled sadly — 
Of this, I have no doubt! 
Show me, then, this so-called Magic Flute — " 
PEASANT (crowding forward — stuttering) — 
"H — h — here it i — s 
Y — y — your w — w — worship 
L — 1 — look out i — i — it doesn't toot!" 
(Holds it arm's length nervously.) 

MADAM SANCHO (still having Lise by wrist, she mean- 
while weeping in her apron, now plunges forward) — 
"Mind what he says, and have a care, 
'Tis evil indeed, of that I could swear!" 
JUDGE— 

"Foolishness, all foolish superstitious rubbish ! 
But, if thou say'st 'tis true 
Play me a tune, and see what it can do. 
(Aside) 

" 'Tis not beneath my dignity 
To whet my curiosity." 
(Hands flute to Luc) 

CHORUS (hands thrown up— gaze about at each other in 
consternation ) — 
"What? Give it him again? 
Good Saints preserve us — 
Stop him, if you can!" 
17 



(Luc snatches flute and begins to play, dancing backward 
across the stage till he reaches extreme right. Judge 
begins to hop, and takes center of stage while with 
great confusion the rest begin dancing.) 
CROWD— 

"Oh, Oh, here we go!" 
(All catch hands and dance in a circle about Judge) 
JUDGE (wildly) 

"Stop, stop! How durst thee make me hop! 
I'll order thee condemned to death 
(Aside) 

As soon as I can catch my breath ! 
To the tune of the law, thoul't dance — sirrah!" 
(Shakes fist.) 
LUC— 

"Ha, ha, ha!" 
(Music stops. Judge falls back into Madam Sancho's arms 
exhausted. All stop dancing. Judge rights himself, 
bristling with rage and snatches flute from Luc, who 
still laughs.) 
JUDGE— 

" 'Tis a monstrous crime — 
For this indignity to my high office 
Thou wilt swing — pardi!" 
(Shakes fist at him — adding.) 

"Now may thy music perish with thee!" 
(Breaks flute in two and cracks Luc on head with an end 
of it. Lise buries face in hands, all hope fled. But as 
the flute is broken, the notes that had proceeded from 
the flute are heard elsewhere,) and the bewildered 
assembly look about to behold Oberon, King of the 
Fairies, standing behind them.) 
OBERON (waves wand) — 

"Oberon, am I, King of Fairy folk 
Who breaks the Magic Flute 
Himself shall go 'dead broke'; 
'Tis not the generous-hearted Luc 
That merits now a just rebuke, 
But Madam Sancho, heartless women she — 
Who on this very day showed small mercy; 
An aged hermit cast she from her door — 
That aged man was I — what's more!" 
MME. SANCHO— 

"Thy Royal forgiveness I implore." 
(Falls on knees.) 

"Not so soon my favor I restore, 
On one condition only can'st thou full forgiveness 

win, 
By forgiving Luc and Lise 

18 









And by giving them the Inn ; 
Thus the King of Fairies' blessing 
Shall rest on all thy land, 
By making Lise's heart rejoice 
In giving Luc her hand." 
(Marquis and Footman exchange a significant look and 
steal quietly off stage, while Innkeeper's wife, after one 
despairing look in their direction, leads Lise by the 
hand before Oberon, who signals Luc, and then clasps 
their hands together — center of stage. Innkeeper's wife 
throws apron over her head, and goes in to Inn. The 
Judge grandly stalks off to his Mansion. The police- 
man whirls his stick, shrugs shoulders, with a know- 
ing look, and saunters off. The peasants gather about 
the couple.) 
OBERON— 

"Now true love triumphs over age and greed of gold, 
By the power of the Magic Flute, the Marquis has 

been sold. 
So hearken everyone, when heart and hand together 

SO, 
No mortal gold could buy the luck 
The Fairy folk bestow !" 
(As the villagers cheer and toss caps — Oberon vanishes.) 

All dance Folk Dance, and in conclusion — arms about 
each other, dance off stage, looking back, gaily; while Luc 
and Lise remain center of stage in fond embrace. 

CURTAIN. 



&u*a9 



19 



NOTES ON THE STAGING OF THE PLAY, 
COSTUMES, ETC. 

THE INN: Extreme left of stage, a one-story affair. 
Brown wrapping paper tacked over boards, and black passe- 
partout strips, crisscrossed on it, to give the effect of plaster 
house, old style architecture. Front only, is necessary, and 
three rows of shingles, painted red, will be sufficient to give 
roof effect. Straw may be used to give a thatch finish, if 
desired. One window, white passe-partout pasted on it to 
stimulate diamond panes. Lace curtains draped on inside, 
quaintly. Row of blooming geraniums on window sill. 
Bench under window. Inn sign swinging above doorway. 
Small wooden bird-cage, nailed to left above door. (Imi- 
tation or real bird.) Broom of twigs leans conveniently 
against side of house. Spinning-wheel stands in front of 
bench, a little stool near by. To right of Inn door, a grape 
trellis, and small three-legged table, with a chair or two. 

Dividing the back of the stage from the front, is a picket 
fence, with rose arch in center, giving exit and entrance to 
players. (People interested in Camp Fire will often gladly 
loan stage fixings. The grape trellis, sections of fence and 
arbor, table, spinning-wheel, etc., were all loaned when this 
play was tsaged. ) Boards used, if procured with the under- 
standing that they are to be returned to the carpenter, cost 
nominally nothing. Roses for arch were made of paper. 
Bushes and shrubs massed at sides and back of fence, and in 
corners. 

Extreme right of stage, front of Judge's mansion. Space 
only is necessary for one person to stand behind it. It is 
necessary to have space for four inside the Inn. 

Treatment of Judge's mansion must be dignified and sev- 
ere. In the original production, columns were obtained from 
contractor who had torn down old building. Shutters ga\e 
'effect of windows. Any doors and windows used are easily 
taken from one's own house, the necessary framework for 
them requiring only a few hours to make. Woodbin and 
roses growing up over doorway gave a good effect. Box 
trees in tubs. Brass knocker. Lantern over door. 

COSTUMES : The Marquis — A girl's three-quarter length 
coat reversed, with satin lining outside. If shaped, with 
somewhat of a flare, so much the better. Broad cuffs, strips 
down front, pocket flaps and back flap made of gold wall 
paper, covered with pieces of old lace curtain. Cardboard 
buttons of gold paper. Lace frills at sleeves and neck. 
Belted, toy sword hangs at side. Large velvet hat with 
sweeping feather, real or tissue paper. Short white, flow- 
ered satine breeches (Butterick pattern) with buckles and 
bunches of lace at knee. Silk stockings, black high heeled 

20 



slippers, red muslin pasted on heels. Marquis carries lorg- 
nette, and cane, gold paper top. French wig is necessary. 

The Footman : Fitted, three-quarter length coat, with 
dark red satine basted on cuffs, and strip down front, etc., 
to give a liveried effect. Brass buttons. Satine breeches, 
same pattern as that of Marquis. Tan stockings, pasteboard 
buckles on shoes. Hair powdered and tied back with black 
ribbon. Three-cornered red hat, with cockade. Carries 
plump velvet cushion, and ring in box. In the other hand, 
a tin bugle. 

Costume of Village Lads : Simple garden smock, regula- 
tion pattern, in plain colors, laced up in front with narrow 
strips of gay colored muslin or ribbon. Bunches of same at 
knees of knickerbockers, which are made of any plain, sober 
material. Girls taking these parts, tuck hair up under round 
peasant hats, or in neck of smocks, to give a Dutch cut 
effect. Hats tyrolese shape, straw or felt, set off with a 
flower or feather. Black low shoes and white stockings, 
complete the costume. 

Costume of Village Girls : Full colored skirts, black or 
flowered satine bodices, with bright shoulder ribbons. Chem- 
isettes, with or without 'kerchiefs. Aprons made of old lace 
curtain. Lace caps, bunched at sides with muslin ribbons, 
or flowers. White stockings, black strapped slippers. 

Innkeeper's Wife: Full red skirt, banded with yellow 
strips. Black muslin apron, white stockings, black shoes. 
Short little dark jacket with short sleeves, white 'kerchief 
crossed and tucked in waistline. White muslin cap with 
flying strings. 

Marjon, aged five or thereabouts. Wears full short skirt 
of bright color, over a plain white dress. Little sleeveless 
black jacket, piped with red braid. White cap, stockings 
and black slippers, but is preferably barefoot. 

Judge : College cap and gown. White wig, large bone 
spectacles pushed back on forehead. Carries red volume, 
finger always keeping the place. 

Oberon (First appearance as Hermit) : Long dark cloak, 
with a reaked hood. Is completely enveloped in it. Carries 
staff. The flute can be made of three short sections of a 
bamboo fishing pole, three or four nails driven in near one 
end. for stops. Paste entirely over with siher paper, after 
first sawing bamboo nearly through in one spot, so it can 
be broken comparatively 'easily when the time comes. 
Touch up with black and gold paint by way of decoration. 

Second appearance as fairy : Sleeveless, sky blue satine 

costume, dropped over head, hangs about to knees, edged 

with Christmas tree tinsel, which is also used as a girdle, 

as well as festooning the armholes. Gold stars pasted around 

21 



border. Blue stockings and gay little slippers. Gold crown 
with star, or sparkling Christmas tree ornament center 
front, also on on tip of wand, that is covered with silver 
paper. 

Gendakme (Policeman) : Military coat. Three cornered 
black hat, red cockade. Trousers tucked in boots, or short 
navy blue breeches, buckles on knees can be worn. Carries 
heavy staff, or club. 

THIS PLAY has been designed peculiarly to fill the need 
for a Musical Drama where FOLK DANCING COULD BE 
INTRODUCED, AND VICTROLA RECORDS USED. The 
following were used in the production of the Play: Victor 
70032, Bolero, Flute solo, by John Lemmone ; Columbia F3050, 
Rheinlander, and F3040, Lassie's Dance. Also German Clap, 
reverse side of Columbia F3050, much changed in character 
to suit gestures necessary- This was used for Lise's Solo 
Dance before the Marquis. Victor 17087, a Minuet. The 
Marquis' Dance. 

Other, and more elaborate dances could be used. Also, 
to lengthen the Play, more could be added. 



22 



